New Zealand wrestler Suraj Singh is celebrating a belated Commonwealth Games bronze medal win following the disqualification of a competitor for an anti-doping violation.
The 23-year-old from Katikati competed in the Men’s 57kg Freestyle Wrestling at Birmingham 2022. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) yesterday confirmed the disqualification of a higher placed competitor, with Singh's result upgraded to bronze.
The placing upgrade takes New Zealand’s total medal count from Birmingham to 50, with Singh elated by the news.
“It means a huge amount, I’ve been wrestling since I was a young kid so to get this result is really special. I wish that I got the medal in Birmingham but I’m pretty pleased to be on the podium in the record books,” said Singh.
“I told my family straight away, they were so happy about it and really pleased to share this moment with me today.”
Singh was presented with flowers and a New Zealand flag at a celebratory event attended by CGF President Dame Louise Martin at the New Zealand Olympic Committee offices today. The CGF is in the process of supplying a new medal to Singh.
NZOC CEO Nicki Nicol congratulated Singh on the upgraded result.
“We’re extremely proud of Suraj and this achievement,” said Nicol.
“He’s a hard worker and deserves this result. It’s a shame he didn’t get to stand on the podium in Birmingham however this result highlights his capability and potential.”
Singh has continued wrestling since Birmingham and hopes to represent New Zealand at further international competitions.
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